The Bailie Bar
The Bailie, at 2-4 St Stephen Street in Stockbridge, Edinburgh, stands as the quintessential local where the atmosphere is just as it should be.
Hosting live music every Friday at 10 PM, The Bailie offers a vibrant setting for patrons to enjoy their evenings. The venue boasts live sport screenings, a selection of cask ales, delectable food, wines, whiskies, and cocktails. Renowned for its famous quiz held every Tuesday at 8:30 PM, tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
History: The roots of The Bailie can be traced back to the 1870s, with its previous iteration known as the Grand Bar. Originally a working-class ‘spit and sawdust’ bar, it was a far cry from its current design. The Grand Bar lacked a restaurant area, and during that period, food service was non-existent. The layout included a small ‘snug’ or ‘jug’ bar where women were allowed to drink, although, unfortunately, no female toilets were available.
In 1971, Hamish Henderson acquired the Grand Bar, renaming it The Bailie, reportedly inspired by a contemporary theatre production. During this period, Stockbridge underwent significant changes, and St Stephen Street faced plans for demolition, later thwarted by local resistance.
The bohemian characters of the 60s and 70s who frequented The Bailie, St Stephen Place 1973.
The early 1980s saw substantial transformations as the current owners expanded the pub by purchasing adjacent properties. This expansion facilitated the creation of the restaurant/dining area, kitchen, and toilets. Despite minor adjustments, The Bailie maintains its authenticity, devoid of music, fruit machines, or jukeboxes.
The daily specials, subject to availability, feature delightful options such as Chunky Leek and Potato Soup, Tender Stem Broccoli in Crispy Beer Batter with Blue Cheese Sauce, Nachos with optional Cajun Chicken, the Bailie Burger, a Fish Basket comprising various seafood delights, Pie of the Day, and tempting desserts like White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake with Ice Cream or Dark Decadent Chocolate Mousse with Ice Cream.
The Bailie’s rich history is encapsulated in a photograph on the wall, taken in 1973, showcasing the bohemian characters of the late 60s and 70s. With no music but ample banter and debate around the island bar, The Bailie remains a cherished local watering hole, drawing regulars who’ve been patrons since the 1950s and 60s alongside a diverse clientele of all ages.
2-4 St Stephen Street, EH3 5AL
